“In January, the USAF’s new Block 50 ground control station controlled an MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle for the first time.”

The USAF completed the construction of several facilities, including secure processing centres, a large aircraft maintenance shelter, communications infrastructure and living dormitories for personnel assigned to the mission.

Operating the aircraft from forward locations in Europe will enable the US to boost relationships with Nato allies and partners.

In January, the USAF’s new Block 50 ground control station controlled an MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle for the first time.

Designed to support surveillance and reconnaissance missions, the aircraft offers an endurance of more than 27 hours and can achieve speeds of 240k true airspeed.

Powered by Honeywell TPE331-10 turboprop engine, MQ-9 has the ability to operate at an altitude of up to 50,000ft and can carry a payload of 3,850lb.

GA-ASI has delivered the aircraft to the airforces of the US, UK, Italy, Spain and France.